Europe



Lawrence of Arabia’s tiny, isolated cottage where he played host to high-profile guests has been given higher protected status.

The south front of Clouds Hill in Dorset, the only adult home of diplomat and writer TE Lawrence which has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II* by Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch.

The south front of Clouds Hill in Dorset, the only adult home of diplomat and writer TE Lawrence which has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II* by Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch. Image by National Trust/Dennis Gilbert/PA Wire

Clouds Hill in Dorset, the only adult home of diplomat and writer TE Lawrence has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II* by Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch. The cottage was a retreat for Lawrence, one of the most recognisable figures from the First World War following his involvement in the Arab Revolt. He entertained friends at the peaceful cottage, with famous visitors including socialite Lady Nancy Astor, poet Siegfried Sassoon and painter Augustus John, and wrote some of his most famous books there.

Lawrence of Arabia's tiny, isolated cottage where he played host to high-profile guests has been given higher protected status.

Lawrence of Arabia’s tiny, isolated cottage where he played host to high-profile guests has been given higher protected status. Image by National Trust/Dennis Gilbert/PA Wire

From 1923, Lawrence reconstructed the partly-derelict cottage, which dates from 1808, making the fittings and furnishings himself, and since his death in 1935 it has been preserved as he left it. Tracey Crouch said: “This wonderful house held a special place in TE Lawrence’s heart and gives us a glimpse into the home life of one of the most iconic writers and influential diplomats of the 20th century. This extra protection will preserve the building and TE Lawrence’s extraordinary legacy for years to come.”

Deborah Williams, from Government heritage body Historic England, said the cottage was very evocative of his personality and interests. “Clouds Hill deserved to be upgraded to Grade II* in recognition of the importance of Lawrence’s life and the particular place which the cottage held in his heart,” she said.

The National Trust, to whom Lawrence’s brother donated the cottage and some of its contents in 1935, welcomed the upgraded listing. Helen Mann, general manager for the National Trust, said: “The tiny, isolated cottage, which re-opens for visitors on 8 March, offers a real insight into the reflective, private and complex character of Lawrence. “The rooms and contents remain much as he left them and the cottage is full of atmosphere.”

(Press Association)